"DEARLY BELOVED IN CHRIST,

PEACE...

It is truly a Grace to have returned to Patton in Resurrectiontide after a 6-month entombment in my monastery cell in the cloister of the Archabbey. While writing dozens of letters I kept personal phone calls to a minimum and kept just enough contact to know that the Parish was holding its own.

A huge debt of gratitude is owed to the Rev. Fr’s Cyprian and Maurus, O.S.B. Their Sacramental ministry was stability in a time of doubt and uncertainty. Also, we thank the Rev. Mr. Chris Conner who assisted in the Sanctuary and acted as administrator. However, you know as well as I that it is the invisible, the unseen, the always unsung who dutifully go about the tasks assigned as well as self-motivated, who look for no praise, or thanks or recognition such as kitchen and bakery volunteers, maintenance and housecleaners, liturgical ministers and servers, laundresses and various other “church mice.” I am grateful for your unflinching/faithful service. This is how a people who imitate their Savior conduct themselves moving forward with determination, confidence, faith and trust in the Providence of God.

God bless your good zeal and prosper the work of your hands for countless years to come.

Benedictions,

Fr. Ananias, O.S.B.